Our favorite thing about 2026 wedding trends is the overarching lean towards storytelling and non-traditional. Getting away from doing things because it’s just “what’s been done” and instead embracing individuality, self-expression, and truly making memories with family and friends.

Unconventional Venues

Weddings no longer have to be a church and then some sort of hall. Your celebration is about you and expressing your love in a memorable way.

Some ideas we love: Museums, botanic garden or greenhouse, forest or clifftop, brewery, sailboat, industrial space, campground. But honestly, the inspiration is endless when you have the freedom to be creative and plan a wedding that’s unique to you and your relationship!

Docu-editorial Photography and Videography

There’s a massive shift away from overly posed and straight editorial, instead mixing prompt-based with capturing the day as it unfolds. This approach to photo and video is more balanced than straight “fly on the wall” documentary. It focuses on curating your story in an authentic yet deeply artistic way. It also shifts away from overly posed, which makes your wedding day feel more like a stiff production than a celebration, preventing true flow of emotion.

Creative Table Designs

Instead of traditional circular tables and elaborate seat assignments, there is a shift towards more artistic and intimate reception spaces. Serpentine and long tables offer a more relaxed atmosphere, while providing an elegant aesthetic. Celebrate your community and loved ones in a way that feels more cohesive. In fact, consider reducing your guest list to those you truly want there, eliminating reason for that far corner table anyway.

Elevated Casual Menus

Overly formal and stuffy dining experiences are out. Consider instead curating an elevated menu that feels like you and your vibe. Food has endless potential to express who you are and what you value. Grazing tables with locally sourced ingredients, wood fired custom pizzas and taco bars are all options that can still be sophisticated yet add to a more fun and relaxed atmosphere. Embracing unconventional can also be more forgiving on the wallet than conventional plating, while giving your guests an experience they will cherish for years to come.

Personalized Aesthetic

Call this the anti-trend trend. Curating your aesthetic (preferably with the help of an experienced planner or coordinator) should completely be about your vibe and personality. It’s in vogue to embrace elements of your story. Think: favorite movie, memory, or something the two of you share and cherish, whether it’s a hobby, passion, activity or travel spot.

Non-Matching Bridal Party

Identical bridesmaid dresses are so out. Instead, brides are opting for mismatched dresses that flatter individual body types. Choosing dresses in a color palette rather than all the same color, as well as embracing a range of materials and textures, is not only visually a more pleasing aesthetic, but also helps your girls feel more relaxed and enjoy the day when they know they look their best.

Wedding planning can be so incredibly overwhelming, especially with social media screaming trends and conflicting information about what’s “best” for your day. Let your one take-away be this: eliminate the noise… from family, friends, and online. Take a step back and analyze your values, then planning a day that feels right will just flow.